North Carolina Gerontology Certificate Programs On Campus

Interested in Gerontology Certificate Programs On Campus that offer insight into the unique challenges of growing older? From laboratory research to gerontological nursing, the field of gerontology may offer many exciting professional avenues to explore. Earning a certificate of gerontology may be the perfect next step if your career goals involve improving quality of life for the elderly. Plus, a Gerontology Certificate Programs On Campus could offer opportunities to meet likeminded peers and partake of university resources like laboratories, research libraries, and more. Below, you’ll find plenty of info on what a certificate of gerontology could offer. Plus, check out some prospective programs that may interest you!

What is gerontology, and why does it matter?[i]

Simply put, gerontology is the study of aging and the changes people may experience as they grow older. Gerontologists study these changes, and they may work hard to discover solutions for age-related health and social problems. Technically, gerontologists are medical scientists who often work for research labs, universities, hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies. However, the study of aging may have applications in other career areas, like gerontological nursing. And some gerontologists may even work with elderly patients in a physician’s capacity, after earning a medical degree.[ii]

Perhaps you are drawn to gerontology because you hope to make a positive impact in a world that will soon include a much larger elderly population! In the U.S., the population of residents aged 85 and older is predicted to double by 2036…and a growing population of aging adults may mean more healthcare and social challenges.[iii] Whatever the reason for your interest in the study of aging, it’s pretty clear that this field is a meaningful one!

Did you know: average life expectancy of U.S.

residents at age 65 increased by nearly four years between 1972 and 2010. Rates are expected to keep rising![iii]

Should I earn a certificate of gerontology?

That depends on your interests, eligibility, and career goals! Here are a few reasons why a graduate certificate in gerontology may appeal to you:

Career changes are on the horizon – Hoping to pursue a new career path that involves working with aging people or on behalf of elderly populations? If so, you may be hoping to explore a specific aspect of the field of gerontology. Gerontology certificate programs are usually short-term, non-degree programs that could introduce you to the study of aging or help you refine a specific knowledge area.

You’ve already earned a graduate degree – If you’re hoping to build on what you learned in a master’s program, perhaps earning a certificate of gerontology is a smart next step! For example, Nurse Practitioners must earn a minimum of an MSN (Master of Science in Nursing), among other requirements.[iv] However, NPs hoping to specialize in adult-gerontology care and pursue gerontological nursing certification could potentially earn a post-graduate certificate of gerontology to learn more about the elderly populations they hope to serve!

You want to choose your area of focus – Certificate programs may offer targeted, specific insight into a career area or issue. For example, you might explore gerontology certificate programs in adult-gerontology primary nursing care, gerontological acute care, or other potential areas of health and social concern for aging populations. You could also potentially pursue a more general certificate of gerontology that offers an overview of the study of aging.

Why consider choosing Gerontology Certificate Programs On Campus?

Today’s students may have lots of options for pursuing an education in gerontology…like online and hybrid learning. However, there may be potential benefits to choosing a traditional college campus. Here are just a few:

Campus resources – you could have access to fully-equipped classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and more. Since gerontologists often spend a lot of time conducting research and working in the lab, it may make sense to have these resources at your fingertips! ii

In-person learning – some students might prefer face-to-face instruction, while others are just fine with a distance learning format. If you learn best in a traditional classroom setting, perhaps a campus-based program is perfect for you!

Friends and community – being part of a thriving campus community can be rewarding. You could potentially get involved with student organizations or make social and professional connections within your cohort.

Potential flexibility – while campus programs may not be quite as flexible as online learning, you just might be able to find a certificate of gerontology program for busy, working adults. For example, ask about the availability of evening and weekend classes that could help you fit gerontology courses into your schedule.

What should I look for in gerontology certificate programs?

You may have a few options to choose from…but which certificate of gerontology may suit your goals and lifestyle? One important factor to look for in a Gerontology Certificate Programs On Campus is location. Ask yourself if you are willing to relocate to pursue your studies, or if a nearby college or university is more convenient. You may also want to find out about the availability of evening and weekend courses, childcare options, or other resources that could help you juggle your work and/or family responsibilities while pursuing your certificate.

It’s also important to examine your prospective program’s accreditation. Accreditation from an independent agency may help ensure your certificate program upholds standards of the accrediting agency[v]. And don’t forget to inquire about student success and satisfaction. You may want to talk to current students and alumni to learn more about their experiences in your prospective Gerontology Certificate Programs On Campus!

Ready to get started?

If earning a gerontological certificate sounds like a good next step, check out some prospective programs that could introduce you to the study of aging and its accompanying health and social challenges. Below, you’ll find some Gerontology Certificate Programs On Campus that may be worth exploring. Click the program that interests you to learn more about what’s in store!

Appalachian State University

The MA in Gerontology primarily prepares you for a career in the field of aging services and/or research, such as a position with an Area Agency on Aging, which oversees services in a multi-county region, or as a nursing home or assisted living administ...

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